John & Karen’s Open-Plan Kitchen Transformation
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John & Karen’s Kitchen
Location: Kelvin Grove, QLD
Style: Traditional Hamptons
Design Goals
John and Karen wanted to transform their dark, closed-off kitchen into a brighter, more functional space. The existing full-height wall and walk-in pantry restricted light and usability, so they envisioned an open-plan kitchen design with a classic Hamptons aesthetic that would enhance the kitchen’s role as the heart of their home.
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Key Design Features and Gallery
Key Design Features
Space Transformation
- Wall Adjustment: The full-height wall behind the sink was reduced to create an open-plan layout, allowing light to flow through and making the kitchen brighter and more inviting.
- Walk-In Pantry Removal: The non-functional walk-in pantry was removed, providing more room for a practical and streamlined kitchen design.
Cabinetry & Style
- Style: Traditional Hamptons cabinetry with a satin two-pack finish for timeless elegance.
- Details: Classic Hamptons profiles blend traditional charm with modern utility.
Benchtops
- Material: 40 mm YDL Angel Falls for a luxurious, polished look.
- Design Choice: A waterfall edge was added to the raised bar back wall, serving as a subtle yet luxurious focal point. Matching stone was used for the splashback on the raised bar back, creating seamless continuity.
Feature Elements
- Floating Shelves: Warm wood-grain floating shelves add a natural touch, tying in with the solid timber flooring and pendant lighting accents.
- Mixed Splashbacks: Stone was used on the raised bar back for cohesion, while the remaining splashbacks feature elegant tiles to enhance the Hamptons aesthetic.
Design Concept
The focus was on opening up the kitchen renovation to improve accessibility and light while maintaining functionality and style. The combination of stone, wood, and traditional cabinetry creates a harmonious balance of warmth and elegance.
Outcome
The renovation transformed John and Karen’s previously dark, compartmentalised kitchen into a bright, open-plan space. The thoughtful use of materials, such as YDL Angel Falls stone and wood accents, enhanced the kitchen’s warmth and character. The new layout is spacious, stylish, and perfectly suited to the family’s needs.
Key Design Breakdown
Space Transformation
- Wall Adjustment: Full-height wall reduced to open the space and improve light flow.
- Walk-In Pantry: Removed for a more functional layout and streamlined storage.
Cabinetry
- Style: Traditional Hamptons cabinetry in satin two-pack finish for timeless elegance.
Benchtops
- Material: 40 mm YDL Angel Falls stone for a polished, luxurious appearance.
- Design: Waterfall edge on the raised bar back wall, with matching stone splashback for a cohesive look.
Feature Elements
- Floating Shelves: Wood-grain shelves complement the timber flooring and pendant lights, adding warmth.
- Splashbacks: Mixed splashbacks feature stone on the raised bar back wall and elegant tiles elsewhere.
Design Concept
- Objective: Create a brighter, more accessible open-plan kitchen with traditional elegance and modern functionality.